John Gaio's blog

Prices decreased year over year in Greater regions of Toronto and Vancouver, while Quebec, the Prairies and Atlantic Canada recorded price appreciation.

Spring is typically when housing markets across the country see a surge in activity. As Canadians shake off the winter blues, many see the season as the ideal time to buy or sell a home. However, in 2025, the usual kick-off to the real estate year has played out unevenly across regions, with some markets gaining momentum while others remain sluggish.

According to the Royal LePage^® House Price Survey and Market Forecast released today, the...

National sales volumes fall for the fourth consecutive month, while supply edges upward and prices ease

Canada’s housing market continued to slow in March 2025, with home sales falling for the fourth month in a row, according to the latest market report from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). 

Rising uncertainty stemming from the ongoing tariff dispute with the United States, coupled with the looming federal election, is causing many homebuyers to adopt a wait-and-see approach. Typically a period of brisk activity, the spring market is instead experiencing a notable slowdown. The...

Unwanted smells turn many buyers off during a home showing, but for some, the dream of owning the right property outweighs the temporary inconvenience of lingering odours. If you’ve bought a new home and are now dealing with stubborn smells, don’t worry – it’s possible to get rid of them. With these simple cleaning methods, you can breathe new life into your living space.

Here are a few common household odours that might be haunting your home (and how to eliminate them):

Musty or mouldy smells

These smells often come from high humidity, water damage, or hidden mould growth. Start by...

A well-designed laundry room is more than a luxury, it’s a game-changer for modern homes. Whether you’re looking to maximize efficiency, enhance aesthetics, or add functionality, renovating your laundry space can make a big impact. Here’s how to turn your laundry room into a space you’ll actually enjoy using.

Plan your layout with purpose

The layout is the foundation of any laundry room redesign. Start by analyzing your space and determining the best placement for appliances and work areas.

• Stack or side-by-side appliances: If space is limited, consider stacking your washer and dryer to...

Relocating to a new province is an exciting adventure, but it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you’re moving for work, a change of pace, or new opportunities, planning ahead is key to making your transition as seamless as possible. 

During the pandemic in 2020 and 2021, many Canadians embraced remote work and made big moves across the country, taking advantage of newfound flexibility. If you’re planning a similar leap, here’s how to relocate like a pro.

Research your new province

Before making your move, spend time learning about your new province. Understanding the cost of living,...

Housing ranks as the #1 election issue among generation Z and millennials

Ontario voters are heading back to the polls this week, and once again housing affordability is front and centre.

According to a recent Royal LePage® survey, conducted by Hill & Knowlton,¹ 69% of adults in Ontario say that a party or candidate’s position on tackling the current housing supply and affordability crisis will influence their vote. Not surprisingly, that figure is even higher among the younger generations (72% of generation Z and 75% of millennials), renters (73%), and those planning to purchase a home...

More than half of Canadian borrowers anticipate their monthly mortgage payment to increase upon renewal in 2025

More than a million Canadian mortgages will come up for renewal this year. Though interest rates have been on the decline for the last several months, many borrowers are bracing for an increase to their monthly payment – an adjustment that could be quite steep for some households.

According to a recent Royal LePage survey, conducted by Hill & Knowlton,¹ more than half (57%) of Canadians who are renewing the mortgage on their primary residence in 2025 expect their monthly mortgage...

At first, your home may have felt like true love – the perfect match, full of excitement and possibility. But as time goes on, the honeymoon phase can fade. Maybe you’re craving more space, a shorter commute to work or school, or modern features that other homes seem to have. If you’re feeling restless, you might be wondering, “Is it time for a fresh start, or can this relationship be saved with a little TLC?”

Deciding whether to move to a new home or renovate the one you’ve got is no small decision — it’s a mix of emotions, finances, and practicality all rolled into one. Think of it like...

Tiles are the unsung heroes of home design, combining durability with style to transform any room. Whether you’re dreaming of a stunning kitchen backsplash, giving your bathroom a facelift, or refreshing your laundry room, choosing the right tile can make all the difference. This guide will help you choose the perfect tile for any space.

Choosing the right tile for each room

Not all tiles are made equally. Selecting the right tile heavily depends on room usage, moisture levels, and design goals, among other factors. Here’s how to choose the right tile for each space in your home.

Bathroom...

Activity gained momentum in the final quarter of 2024, resulting in moderate price gains and setting the stage for a brisk spring market.

Despite economic and political uncertainty – both in Canada and south of the border – a revival of our national real estate market is underway thanks to lower interest rates, changes to mortgage lending rules, and renewed buyer demand. Strong activity through the final months of 2024 in most major regions from coast to coast resulted in moderate price gains, nationally. 

According to the Royal LePage^® House Price Survey released today, the...